Classic Homemade Lasagna

slice of homemade lasagna on a white plate

This easy homemade lasagna recipe is loaded with savory meat, gooey cheese, and bursts of flavor in every mouthful. Better than any restaurant lasagna, and less expensive too! Make this for a crowd, or freeze it in portions for a quick and hearty meal any time.

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Keyword best lasagna recipe, easy lasagna, homemade lasagna, lasagna recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings servings

Calories 543kcal

Cost $10

Ingredients

Meat Layer

2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion finely diced
2 large garlic cloves minced (or 1 tsp dried)
1 Tbsp olive oil
24 oz marinara sauce (3 cups)
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper ground

Pasta

9 lasagna sheets al dente and ready to use (or homemade, uncooked lasagna)

Cheese Layer

16 oz ricotta cheese we use homemade ricotta due to raw milk needs (it's so easy!)
2 large eggs
1/4 tsp salt
2 Tbsp parsley finely chopped, plus more to garnish
6 cups mozzarella cheese shredded, divided

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté ground beef and diced onion until beef is no longer pink. Mix in minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Pour in 3 cups marinara, season with salt and pepper, bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, blend ricotta cheese, eggs, and parsley until smooth.
Pre-heat the oven to 375˚F.
Spread 1/2 cup meat sauce in a deep 9×13 casserole dish.
Add a layer of cooked or no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Make sure that the entire pan is covered (about 3 sheets).
Spread 1/3 of the remaining meat sauce, sprinkle 2 cups mozzarella, top with 1/2 cheese sauce.
Repeat the noodle, cheese, and meat layers for three total layer sets.
Poke toothpicks on the surface, cover with foil, bake for 45 minutes.
Remove foil, bake for another 3-5 minutes until golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 30 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with parsley and serve this delicious, homemade lasagna!

Notes

Common Questions

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for preparing ahead for gatherings or busy days.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover lasagna. Once it's cooled, slice it into portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta in the cheese sauce?

Certainly! While traditional lasagna recipes often use ricotta, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute in equal proportions for a slightly different texture. It adds a creamy element to the layers without compromising the overall flavor.

Can I use no-boil or homemade lasagna noodles instead of traditional noodles?

Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles as a time-saving alternative. Simply layer them directly into the lasagna; they will cook perfectly during the baking process, absorbing moisture from the sauces.

What can I serve with this lasagna to make a complete meal?

A fresh green salad and garlic bread are classic accompaniments that pair wonderfully with lasagna. The crispness of the salad and the warmth of garlic bread complement the richness of the lasagna, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. We like to use this easy pizza dough to make garlic breadsticks and they are amazing!

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